Eucomis sp. (Pineapple Lily)

Eucomis sp. (Pineapple Lily) stalks with pink flower clusters rising from speckled green leaves.

Botanical name: Eucomis sp.

Common names: Pineapple Lily, Aloha Lily

Family: Asparagaceae (Formerly:Hyacinthaceae / Liliaceae)

Subfamily: Scilloideae

Origin: South Africa

USDA Zone: 6-10

Plant form: Small

Mature height: 2-5 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.

Watering: Moderate

Flower color: Pink; white and off-white; blue, lavender, purple; unusual color

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Fragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant

Ethnomedical: Ethnomedical plant, traditionally used in folk or indigenous medicine

Aloha Lily Eucomis are exotic, fragrant, drought tolerant once established, are nearly disease and pest free, are low input and have an extended shelf life. There are currently three main varieties: Leia, a burgundy-purple; Maui, a pure white; and Nani, a soft pink.

It is called the Pineapple Lily for its unusual flower heads that either resemble pineapples or are perfectly cylindrical. The leaves are thick and lance shaped and make up a full basal rosette. Pineapple Lilies like rich, loose soil and full sun. They will grow in partial shade, but will have fewer and smaller flowers.

Aloha Lily Eucomis do well over a wide range of environmental conditions and can be grown as potted plants or in-ground.